Rehabilitation Science, Graduate Certificate

Contact Info

Program Overview

The Institute of Medicine defines rehabilitation science as "a field of study that encompasses basic and applied aspects of the health sciences, social sciences, and engineering. It is the melding of knowledge from several disciplines to understand the fundamental nature of the enabling–disabling process." The graduate certificate in rehabilitation science prepares students to apply research and statistical techniques to the study of the enabling–disabling process. It is designed for students interested in rehabilitation-related careers who already have a bachelor’s degree.

Student Outcomes

In this program, students will acquire competencies in the following areas:

Rehabilitation and recovery framework;

Research design and methodology;

Ability to participate in rehabilitation research.

The department hosts information sessions on a regular basis for those interested in our academic programs. Email us at rhbs@gmu.edu if you are interested in speaking with one of our faculty members.

Curriculum Information

The curriculum, including short descriptions of the required courses, is available in Mason's University Catalog. Candidates must have 15 graduate credits and a minimum GPA of 3.00 in course work, with no more than 3 credits with a grade of C to earn the certificate.

Opportunities

Graduates of the graduate certificate in rehabilitation science program will be competitive for a wide range of employment in inpatient, outpatient, and industry-based organizations focused on physical rehabilitation for individuals living with chronic illness and disability. The program prepares students to pursue careers in rehabilitative health services, especially those related to chronic diseases, such as cardiac and cardiovascular rehabilitation, neurological injuries, and cancer.

Additionally, a graduate certificate in rehabilitation science is a strong starting point for students interested in entering competitive graduate clinical and research programs in rehabilitation, such as: